What is the most serious potential progression associated with MVP?

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a condition where the mitral valve leaflets bulge into the left atrium during systole, which can lead to various complications. The most serious potential progression associated with MVP is mitral regurgitation.

Over time, the structural changes associated with MVP can cause the mitral valve to become less effective at closing properly, allowing blood to leak backward from the left ventricle into the left atrium during contraction. This regurgitation can lead to volume overload of the left atrium and subsequently, higher pressures in the pulmonary circulation, which may result in symptoms like shortness of breath, palpitations, and even heart failure if left untreated.

While other complications, such as endocarditis, can occur with MVP due to the increased likelihood of bacteria adhering to the abnormal valve structure, the direct impact on hemodynamics and heart function is most pronounced with severe mitral regurgitation. This condition has significant clinical implications and often requires monitoring and potentially surgical intervention when severe.